Kashawn Glaze, Sherrod Smalls Obituary, Death – Authorities in Beaufort County have released the identities of four individuals who lost their lives following a tragic incident that took place early Sunday morning at a local bar and grill. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed the names of the victims as Kashawn Glaze, 22, of Beaufort; Sherrod Smalls, 33, also of Beaufort; A’shan’tek Milledge, 22, of Burton; and Amos Gary, 54, of St. Helena Island.
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), deputies were dispatched to Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island around 1 a.m. after reports of an active disturbance. When officers arrived, they found a chaotic scene, with a large crowd gathered and multiple people injured. Authorities estimate that hundreds of people were present at the establishment when the violence broke out.
Emergency responders immediately began assisting the wounded, while deputies worked to secure the area and gather information from witnesses. Several individuals were taken to nearby hospitals by emergency medical services (EMS), while others were transported by private vehicles before first responders arrived.
Officials confirmed that four people were pronounced dead at the scene, and at least 20 others sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical. Four of those victims were initially listed in critical condition when taken to local hospitals. As of now, the current condition of the injured individuals has not been released.
Investigators have since been working around the clock to determine what led to the incident. Detectives from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by forensic specialists, have been interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the bar and surrounding area. While the motive remains unclear, authorities said they have identified persons of interest and are pursuing several leads.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that this appears to be an isolated event and that there is no indication of a continuing threat to public safety. However, deputies have increased patrols in the St. Helena Island area as a precaution while the investigation continues.
Residents have described the event as deeply shocking for the tight-knit community, which is not accustomed to such large-scale violence. Community leaders and family members of the victims have expressed grief and disbelief, calling for peace and cooperation with law enforcement as they work to bring clarity and accountability.
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office stated that all four individuals who lost their lives have been identified and that next of kin have been notified. Autopsies are being conducted to confirm the causes of death as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have asked anyone who may have been at Willie’s Bar and Grill that night, or anyone with videos or photos from the scene, to contact Investigator Master Sergeant Duncan at 843-255-3418 or submit information anonymously through Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry.
Local emergency officials commended the first responders and medical personnel for their quick actions, which they said likely saved lives amid a very challenging situation. “The response from law enforcement, EMS, and hospital staff was immediate and professional,” a sheriff’s office spokesperson said. “We are doing everything possible to support the victims, their families, and the community.”
In the days following the incident, residents of Beaufort, Burton, and St. Helena have gathered for vigils and prayer meetings, honoring the lives lost and showing solidarity with those injured. Many have left candles, flowers, and messages outside the establishment where the tragedy occurred.
Local authorities are urging calm as they continue to piece together the timeline of events. Investigators believe that witness cooperation will play a crucial role in helping them identify all parties involved and understand what triggered the violence.
While much remains unclear, officials say that progress is being made and that updates will be shared with the public as new information becomes available.
In the meantime, the Beaufort County community continues to mourn the loss of four lives and to rally behind the families affected. Law enforcement has assured residents that they are fully committed to bringing justice and closure to those impacted by this devastating event.